Use of Ecofriendly Fertilizers and Crop Residues for Enhancing Crop Productivity and Sustainable Agriculture

Abstract

Due to the exploding world population, there is a tremendous increase in demand for agricultural output, which has resulted in the pressure for large-scale crop production. Therefore, chemical fertilizers are used extensively to increase the agricultural output, which has caused hazardous effects on human health, soil quality, and the environment. To combat these problems, beneficial microbes have been exploited and used as biofertilizers. It has been well documented that certain microorganisms including bacteria, fungi, and cyanobacteria have plant growth promoting properties and can be safely used as alternative sources of fertilizer. These microbes when used in combination with crop residues and compost show better results in terms of crop yield and soil fertility. The chapter highlights the potential use of various types of biofertilizers in sustainable agriculture with special emphasis on their beneficial role in nutrient uptake, plant growth promotion, and protection against several plant pathogens in an eco-friendly manner.